ESSENTIAL

EXPLOSION PROTECTION
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FOREWORD

In many industries, gases, vapours, mist and dust develop and escape
in the course of manufacturing, processing, transporting and storing
combustible substances. Explosive atmospheres may arise when they
come into contact with oxygen, and if ignited, explosions occur that
may result in catastrophic damage to human life and property.

Industries such as oil and gas, chemicals, petrochemicals, pharma-

ceuticals, fertilisers, food and beverages, biofuel and waste water are
considered potential for explosions in general. Safety regulations to
avoid explosions have been developed worldwide in the form of legis-
lation, ordinances and standards. These standards ensure compliance
to high safety standards.

This publication provides both professionals and others interested in

this subject with an insight into the field of explosion protection. It con-
tains the relevant international legal bases and norms, European direc-
tives and North American standards. Along with technical principles
such as zone classification, temperature classes and protection types,
the brochure supplies information on the installation and operation of
equipment in hazardous areas. This document serves as the basics and
does not replace relevant study of the current applicable regulations.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOREWORD 3

1. PHYSICAL PRINCIPLES AND DEFINITIONS 6

2. LEGAL BASES 9

2.1 Explosion protection worldwide 11

2.2 Explosion protection in the European Union 12
2.2.1 Installation and operation 14
2.2.2 Selection of equipment 16
2.3 Explosion protection in North America 18
2.3.1 Installation and operation 18
2.3.2 Selection of equipment 19

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES 21

3.1 Zone classification 23

3.2 Equipment categories and equipment protection level (EPL) 24
3.3 Equipment groups 26
3.4 Ignition temperature and temperature classes 28
3.5 Protection types 30
3.5.1 Application of protection type intrinsic safety “i” 35
3.5.2 Application and combination of protection types 39
flameproof enclosure “d” and increased safety “e”
3.5.3 Application of protection type constructional safety “c” 40
3.6 Marking 41

4. INSTALLATION AND OPERATION OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT 43

IN HAZARDOUS AREAS

4.1 Operator, installer and manufacturer obligations 44

4.2 Area classification and equipment selection 46
4.3 Installation methods 46
4.4 Upkeep and maintenance 48
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5. APPENDIX 50

5.1 Safety characteristics of combustible gases and vapours 50

5.2 Enclosure protection types to IEC 60 60529 – IPXX 51
5.3 Enclosure protection types to NEMA standards 51
5.4 Marking of electrical equipment 52
5.5 Marking of non-electrical equipment 53

BIBLIOGRAPHY 54
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1. PHYSICAL PRINCIPLES

AND DEFINITIONS

Explosion protection is a key area of safety engineering. So it is essential to understand the fundamental
principles of an explosion and its causation factors. The first chapter of our brochure familiarises readers
with the main principles and terms in the field of explosion protection.

An explosion is the sudden chemical reaction of a combustible
substance with oxygen, resulting in the release of a high amount
of energy. An explosion can only occur when three factors are
present at the same time (see Fig. 1):
Combustible substance
Combustible substances may be present in the form of gases,
mists, vapours or dusts. Safety-relevant parameters need to be
considered to characterise hazard potentials.

1. Combustible substance. Explosive atmosphere

2. Oxygen (air). Explosive atmospheres contain a mixture of air and combus-
3. Ignition source. tible gases, vapours, mists or dust in atmospheric conditions
in which after ignition the combustion process spreads to the
entire unburned mixture. In general, the atmospheric conditions
are deemed to be ambient temperatures of -20 °C to +60 °C, a
pressure range of 0.8 bar to 1.1 bar and an oxygen content of
21% in the air.

Combustible Air
substance (oxygen) Flashpoint
The flashpoint is the minimum temperature at which a combus-
tible liquid forms an ignitable mixture with air above the surface
of the liquid (in normal air pressure conditions). If the flashpoint
of a combustible liquid is far higher than the maximum temper-
atures which arise, an explosive atmosphere cannot be formed.
However, the flashpoint of a mixture of various liquids may be
lower than that of the individual components. In the German
Ignition source Ordinance on Hazardous Substances (Gefahrenstoffverordnung),
besides its boiling point, the flashpoint of a liquid is used to
classify liquids (see Table 1).
Figure 1: A
 n explosion can only occur when these
three factors coincide.

V
Table 1: Criteria for combustible liquids

Category Criteria

1 Flashpoint < 23 °C and boiling point ≤ 35 °C

2 Flashpoint < 23 °C and boiling point > 35 °C

3 Flashpoint ≥ 23 °C and ≤ 60 °C (1)

(1)
For the purpose of the CLP Regulation, gas oil, diesel and light heating fuels, which have a flashpoint ranging from
55 °C to 75 °C, may be deemed to belong to Category 3.
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Explosive limits
Air concentration 0 vol% To form an explosive atmosphere, the combustible substance
must be present in a certain concentration (see Fig. 2). In the
case of insufficient concentrations (lean mixture) or excessive
mixture explosion range mixture
too lean too rich
concentrations (rich mixture) no explosion takes place, but a
stationary or non-combustive reaction. It is only in the range
none
no partial between the lower (LEL) and upper (UEL) explosive limits that
100combustion
vol % combustion, the mixture reacts explosively when ignited. The explosive limits
no explosion
depend on the ambient pressure and the percentage of oxygen
in the air (see Table 2).
Explosive limit

0 vol%
Figure 2: Explosive limits
lower upper
Ignition sources
Concentration of the In order to prevent ignition of a hazardous explosive atmos-
combustible substance 100 vol%
phere, all potential sources of ignitions must be identified
and safeguarded to make them nonthreatening. Ignition of an
explosive atmosphere may, for instance, be caused by the
following sources:

V • Hot surfaces
Table 2: Explosive limits of specified gases and vapours • Flames and hot gases
• Mechanically generated sparks
Designation of Lower explosive Upper explosive
• Electrical systems
substances limit [vol. %] limit [vol. %]
• Electrical equalising currents, cathodic corrosion protection
100
Acetylene 2.3
(self-decomposing) • Static electricity
• Lightning
Ethylene 2.4 32.6
• Electromagnetic waves (high frequency)
Petrol ~0.6 ~8.0 • Optical radiation
Benzene 1.2 8.0 • Ionising radiation
Fuel oil / diesel ~0.6 ~6.5
• Ultrasound
• Adiabatic compression and shock waves
Methane 4.4 17.0
• Exothermal reactions
Propane 1.7 10.8

Carbon disulphide 0.6 60.0

Hydrogen 4.0 77.0

E xtract from the table “Safety characteristics, Vol. 1: Combustible liquids and
gases” by E. Brandes and W. Möller, K. Nabert and G. Schön (6th edition).
 8
1. PHYSICAL PRINCIPLES
AND DEFINITIONS
Minimum ignition energy
The supply of a specific amount of energy is required to ignite
a potentially explosive atmosphere. Minimum ignition energy is
the term applied to the minimum amount of energy, for instance
when discharging a capacitor, which is just sufficient to ignite
the respective combustible mixture. The minimum ignition energy
is in the area of 10-5 joules for hydrogen and up to a few joules
for certain dusts.
Integrated explosion protection
The principle of integrated explosion protection requires that
all explosion protection measures be performed in a fixed order,
with a distinction between primary, secondary and tertiary
(constructional) protection measures.
Primary explosion protection
Primary explosion protection covers all measures that prevent
the occurrence of a hazardous explosive atmosphere – for
prevention is always better than protection. These precautions
should therefore always be implemented first. The following
protection measures can be adopted:
• avoidance of combustible substances (alternative
technologies).
• inerting (addition of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, etc.).
• limiting of the concentration by means of natural or
artificial ventilation.
Secondary explosion protection
If explosion hazards cannot be entirely or only partially excluded
by measures to prevent the formation of explosive atmospheres,
measures must be adopted to prevent the ignition of explosive
atmospheres. The required safety level of these measures de-
pends on the hazard potential at the operating location.
Tertiary or constructional explosion protection
If the occurrence of a hazardous explosive atmosphere cannot
be safely prevented and its ignition cannot be excluded, meas-
ures must be adopted that limit the impact of an explosion to a
negligible extent. The following precautions are possible:
• flameproof or pressure-surge-resistant design.
• pressure relief and pressure compensation equipment.
• explosion suppression with extinguishing devices.
Integrated explosion protection
1
Avoiding the formation of
explosive atmospheres
2
Avoiding the ignition of hazardous
explosive atmospheres
3 Confining explosion impact to a
negligible extent
Figure 3: Explosion protection measures
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2. LEGAL BASES

The requirements of electrical equipment for explosive atmospheres

are multifarious: national and international regulations, directives and
standards must be observed and ensure maximum safety. The following
chapter summarises the main legal requirements and recommendations
worldwide, in the European Union and in North America to provide the
reader with an overview.
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2. LEGAL BASES

Table 3: Electrical equipment for use in hazardous areas

IEC EN

Equipment – General requirements IEC 60079-0 EN 60079-0

Equipment protection by flameproof enclosures “d” IEC 60079-1 EN 60079-1

Classification of areas – Explosive gas atmospheres IEC 60079-10-1 EN 60079-10-1

Classification of areas – Explosive dust atmospheres IEC 60079-10-2 EN 60079-10-2

Equipment protection by intrinsic safety “i” IEC 60079-11 EN 60079-11

Equipment protection by pressurized room "p" and artificially ventilated room "v" IEC 60079-13 EN 60079-13

Electrical installations design, selection and erection IEC 60079-14 EN 60079-14

Equipment protection by type of protection "n" IEC 60079-15 EN 60079-15

Artificial ventilation for the protection of analyser(s) houses IEC/TR 60079-16

Electrical installations inspection and maintenance IEC 60079-17 EN 60079-17

Equipment protection by encapsulation “m” IEC 60079-18 EN 60079-18

Equipment repair, overhaul and reclamation IEC 60079-19 EN 60079-19

Equipment protection by pressurized enclosure “p” IEC 60079-2 EN 60079-2

Intrinsically safe electrical systems IEC 60079-25 EN 60079-25

Equipment with equipment protection level (EPL) Ga IEC 60079-26 EN 60079-26

Protection of equipment and transmission systems using optical radiation IEC 60079-28 EN 60079-28

Gas detectors – Performance requirements of detectors for flammable gases IEC 60079-29-1 EN 60079-29-1

Gas detectors – Selection, installation, use and maintenance of detectors for flammable gases and oxygen IEC 60079-29-2 EN 60079-29-2

Gas detectors – Guidance on functional safety of fixed gas detection systems IEC 60079-29-3 EN 60079-29-3

Gas detectors – Performance requirements of open path detectors for flammable gases IEC 60079-29-4 EN 60079-29-4

Electrical resistance trace heating – General and testing requirements IEC 60079-30-1 EN 60079-30-1

Electrical resistance trace heating – Application guide for design, installation and maintenance IEC 60079-30-2 EN 60079-30-2

Equipment dust ignition protection by enclosure “t” IEC 60079-31 EN 60079-31

Electrostatics hazards – guidance IEC/TS 60079-32-1 CLC/TR 60079-32-1

Electrostatics hazards – Tests IEC 60079-32-2 EN 60079-32-2

Equipment protection by special protection “s” IEC 60079-33 CLC/TR 60079-33

Intrinsically safe systems with electronically controlled spark duration limitation IEC/TS 60079-39 CLC IEC/TS 60079-39

Requirements for process sealing between flammable process fluids and electrical systems IEC TS 60079-40

Electrical safety devices for the control of potential ignition sources for Ex-Equipment IEC TS 60079-42

Equipment in adverse service conditions IEC TS 60079-43

Equipment assemblies IEC TS 60079-46

Equipment protection by powder filling “q” IEC 60079-5 EN 60079-5

Equipment protection by liquid immersion “o” IEC 60079-6 EN 60079-6

Equipment protection by increased safety “e” IEC 60079-7 EN 60079-7

Material characteristics for gas and vapour classification – test methods and data ISO/IEC 80079-20-1 EN ISO/IEC 80079-20-1

Material characteristics – Combustible dusts test methods ISO/IEC 80079-20-2 EN ISO/IEC 80079-20-2

Non-electrical equipment for explosive atmospheres – basic method and requirements ISO 80079-36 EN ISO 80079-36
Non-electrical equipment for explosive atmospheres – non-electrical protection type of protection constructional
ISO 80079-37 EN ISO 80079-37
safety “c”, control of ignition sources “b”, liquid immersion “k”
Safety devices required for the safe functioning of equipment with respect to explosion risks EN 50495

2.1 EXPLOSION PROTECTION WORLDWIDE
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is respon-
sible for global standards in the field of electrical engineering.
IEC publications regarding the explosion protection of electrical
equipment and installations are drafted by the Technical Com-
mittee TC31 and are deemed as recommendations. All standards
observe the latter as far as possible. Until recent years, regula-
tions for gas explosion hazardous areas were stipulated in the
60079 standard series and those for dust explosion hazardous
areas in the 61241 series. As many requirements are identical
for both, the two standard series have now been grouped under
IEC 60079.
The various methods of ensuring ignition protection for equip-
ment are called protection types. They are described in the
various sections of IEC 60079 and are construction regulations
recognised in many countries (see Table 3).
Systems in hazardous areas must be classified according to
their degree of endangerment in respect of the likelihood of the
occurrence of explosive atmospheres in zones. IEC drafted two
standards for this purpose:
• IEC 60079-10-1: Classification of areas –
Explosive gas atmospheres.
• IEC 60079-10-2: Classification of areas –
Explosive dust atmospheres.
11
Further standards are available for the installation and operation
of electrical systems:
• IEC 60079-14: Electrical installations design,
selection and erection.
• IEC 60079-17: Electrical installations inspection and
maintenance.
• IEC 60079-19: Equipment repair, overhaul and reclamation.
In 2016 standards for non-electrical equipment for use in
explosive atmosphere were published:
• ISO 80079-36: Non-electrical equipment for explosive atmos-
pheres – basic method and requirements.
• ISO 80079-37: Non-electrical equipment for explosive atmos-
pheres – non-electrical protection type constructional safety
“c”, control of ignition sources “b”, liquid immersion “k”.
• ISO/IEC 80079-38: Equipment and components in explosive
atmospheres in underground mines
National regulations may however differ from IEC standards.
For this reason the extent to which they may be applied in the
respective countries must be verified. As this entails a high out-
lay for development and approval procedures particularly on the
part of global players, it seemed advisable to subject approval
conditions for electrical equipment to international regulations,
thus permitting a free global movement of goods on the basis
of country or region-neutral certificates. Furthermore, consistent
standards should ensure the maximum safety of Ex products
throughout their entire life cycle. IEC therefore introduced a
procedure with the aim of standardisation: the IECEx Scheme.
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2. LEGAL BASES
Recognised IECEx certification bodies (ExCB = certification body)
and IECEx test laboratories (ExTLs) exist worldwide and are
accredited on the basis of high standard criteria and regularly
monitored. An IECEx certificate is only issued if test sample type
testing is successful and an audit verifies that an effective quality
management system is in place. However, different regional and
national approval procedures currently exist all over the world,
including for example the ATEX directive in the European Union
or national approvals in the USA (UL, FM).
Besides the IECEx Scheme for testing and certifying new prod-
ucts (IECEx Equipment Scheme), for some years now the system
has also included certification of service providers (IECEx
Certified Service Facilities Program). The service provider must
prove that it maintains a quality assurance system. It is audited
every three years by an accredited auditing body (Ex-CB).
The third component of the IECEx Scheme (IECEx Certification
of Personnel Competencies) runs on similar lines. It focuses on
the certification of the personal skills of professionals working
in hazardous areas. This is designed as a guarantee for global
operators that employees possess the necessary qualification
and experience to perform with perfection highly complex tasks
in hazardous areas.
In the “Recognised Training Provider (RTP)” programme the
IECEx organisation examines the competence of providers offer-
ing explosion protection courses. A list of training providers is
available on the IECEx website.
2.2 E XPLOSION PROTECTION IN THE EUROPEAN
UNION
Explosion protection is governed by directives and standards in
the European Union.
Directives
In 1976 the Council of the European Community established the
basis for the free movement of explosion-protected electrical
equipment within the European Union with its “Directive on the
harmonisation of the laws of the member states concerning
electrical equipment for use in potentially explosive atmospheres
(76/117/EEC)”. This directive has since been continuously adapted
to state-of-the-art standards by means of single and supple-
mentary directives, which however only concerned electrical
equipment.
Full harmonisation and extension to all types of equipment,
both electrical and non-electrical, was achieved in 1994 by the
new 94/9/EC (ATEX) directive. This was followed in 1999 by the
1999/92/EC directive, which governs operation in hazardous
areas and defines safety measures for the persons working in
those areas. In February 2014, Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX) was
published. Actual implementation with regards to equipment
certification took place on 20 April 2016, replacing Directive
94/9/EC.
Standards
The European EN 50014 – EN 50020 electrical equipment stand-
ards were issued in 1978 and replaced the previous national
standards for this equipment valid across Europe. Aside from
the electrical equipment standards (published by the European
Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization CENELEC), the
European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has drafted
respective standards for non-electrical explosion-protected
equipment.
According to an agreement between the European Committee
for Electrotechnical Standardization CENELEC and the Inter-
national Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization IEC,
international standards for electrical equipment have generally
been adopted by CENELEC as they stand. The EN 50014 ff series
defining requirements for equipment in explosive gas atmos-
pheres has been gradually replaced by the EN 60079 series
(at international level IEC 60079).

The requirements of protection types for areas with combustible
dust were contained in the IEC 61241 series. In Europe these EN
61241 standards replace the former EN 50281 series. However,
since most requirements for gas and dust are similar, they are
compiled under the series IEC or EN 60079 (see Table 3).
After publication of Directive 94/9/EC in Europe, construction
regulations for non-electrical equipment were also specified
by the EN 13463 standard series. Some protection principles for
electrical equipment were adopted, although amendments were
made to address the special requirements of non-electrical
equipment. Published in 2016, standards ISO 80079-36 and -37
have been adopted as EN ISO 80079-36 and -37 and supersede
the standard series EN 13463.
13
Other important harmonised standards on explosion protection
worthy of mention are EN 1127-1 and -2. They set out methods
by which hazards are identified and assessed and outline the
respective protection measures. Both preventive explosion
protection (avoiding explosive atmospheres and effective ignition
sources) and constructive explosion protection (containing
explosion effects) are addressed. With the aim of preventing
ignition sources as a protective measure, all ignition sources are
described and possible measures for their avoidance defined.
While Part 2 is relevant for mines, Part 1 deals with other areas
(above ground).
• EN 1127-1: Explosive atmospheres –
Explosion protection – Part 1: Basic principles and methods.
• EN 1127-2: Explosive atmospheres –
Explosion protection – Part 2: Basic principles and methods
in mines.
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2. LEGAL BASES
2.2.1 INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
Directive 1999/92/EC “Minimum requirements for improving the
health and safety protection of workers potentially at risk from
explosive atmospheres” explains the principles of the operation
of systems in hazardous areas. It is thus directed at operators
(employers). They must assess the explosion hazard, classify
the system into hazardous zones and document all measures to
protect employees in the explosion protection document.
Evaluation of explosion risks
When assessing explosion risks, the following should be taken
into account:
• Likelihood and duration of the presence of the explosive
atmosphere.
• Likelihood of ignition sources being present, activated, and
becoming effective.
• Materials and methods used and their possible interaction.
• The extent of the expected impacts of explosions.
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Zone classification
The operator must classify the areas in which explosive
atmospheres may be present into zones. It should also ensure
compliance with the directive stipulating the minimum require-
ments (in an organisational and technical respect).

Explosion protection document

The explosion protection document must compulsorily contain
details on the following aspects:

• Risk assessment.
• Protection measures adopted.
• Zone classification.
• Observance of minimum requirements. These are divided into
organisational measures (e.g. instruction of employees) and
technical measures (explosion protection measures).

Directive 1999/92/EC only contains minimum requirements, which

may be freely extended on implementation in national
legislation.
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2. LEGAL BASES

2.2.2 SELECTION OF EQUIPMENT

In 1994 EC Directive 94/9/EC “on the approximation of the laws

of the Member States concerning equipment and protective
systems for use in potentially explosive atmospheres” was
issued to further standardise explosion protection in the EU. It
was replaced in 2014 by EU Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX). It stip-
ulates the requirements for the quality of explosion-protected
equipment and protective systems (e.g. by setting out provisions
for conformity assessment, protective levels, certification,
manufacture and quality assurance, operating manuals and
declarations of conformity), in that it prescribes the essential
health and safety requirements which must be satisfied by
manufacturers and importers. The directive thus ensures the
free movement of goods within the European Union and must
be adopted as it stands into national legislation. In Germany for
instance, this took the form of the Explosion Protection Product
Ordinance as 11th Ordinance of the Equipment and Product
Safety Act (11. ProdSV). It applies to all industrial hazardous
areas (including mining).

The directive applies to equipment, components and protective
systems for use in hazardous areas. It also applies to safety,
control and regulating apparatus used outside the hazardous
area, if the latter is necessary in respect of explosion hazards
for the safe operation of equipment in the hazardous area. The
directive does not refer to established standards, but sets out
fundamental safety requirements, which are deemed as binding
quality requirements. Protection from other hazards (e.g. electric
shock) which may be caused by this equipment must also be
taken into account.
Equipment means machines, apparatus, fixed or mobile devices,
control components and instrumentation thereof and detection
or prevention systems which, separately or jointly, are intended
for the generation, transfer, storage, measurement, control and
conversion of energy and/or the processing of material and
which are capable of causing an explosion through their own
potential sources of ignition.
Component means any item essential to the safe functioning
of equipment and protective systems but with no autonomous
function.
Protective systems means devices other than components of
equipment that are intended to halt incipient explosions imme-
diately and/or to limit the effective range of an explosion. These
are generally available in the market for use as autonomous
systems.
A hazardous atmosphere means an atmosphere which could
become explosive due to local and operational conditions.
Equipment categories
Manufacturers whose equipment may represent a potential ig-
nition source and thus may cause an explosion must submit the
latter for an ignition hazard assessment. In addition, measures
corresponding to the fundamental safety requirements should
be envisaged to preclude the risk of ignition by this equipment.
The directive classes equipment for hazardous areas (with the
exception of mine workings) into three categories with different
levels of safety. The required protective measures are adopted
to the respective required level of safety (Chapter 3.2).
17
Conformity assessment and certification
Equipment for use in hazardous areas must first be submitted
to the conformity assessment procedure prescribed by the
directive before being put into circulation or on the market.
Category 1 and M1 equipment must be submitted to a type
approval test and certification by a notified inspection authority.
The same applies to Category 2 and M2 electric equipment
and combustion engines. Manufacturers can determine and
document conformity with the directive requirements for other
non-electric equipment in this category and for Category 3
equipment. The certificates from a notified inspection authority
are recognised throughout the EU. Existing EC type examination
certificates continue to retain their validity under the new EU
Directive 2014/34/EU.
Marking
EU Directive 2014/34/EU requires special marking:
• CE marking.
• Symbol with group, category and additional letter G or D.
(See Chapter 3.6 for more details.)
Operating instructions
The manufacturer’s operating instructions must clearly define
the intended use of the equipment by the operator. Minimum
requirements of operating instructions include details on safe
commissioning, use, mounting and dismantling, upkeep (main-
tenance and fault clearance) and safe setting-up. It may also be
necessary to specify special conditions for safe use (including
information on improper use).
Equipment and systems may only be put on the market if they
bear the CE mark and the manufacturer’s operating instructions
and declaration of conformity are enclosed. The CE mark and
written EU declaration of conformity confirm the product’s
compliance with all requirements and assessment procedures
stipulated in the EU directives.
 18

2. LEGAL BASES

Table 6a: Traditional classification of hazardous areas in North America

Gases, vapours or mist Dust Fibres and lint

Class I classification Class II classification Class III classification
NEC 500 NEC 500 NEC 500
CEC J18 CEC J18 CEC J18
Division 1 Division 1 Division 1
Areas in which dangerous concentrations of Areas in which dangerous concentrations of Areas in which flammable fibres and lint occur or
incendive gases or vapours explosive dust atmospheres are processed.
• may be present in normal operating conditions • may be present in normal operating conditions
• may frequently arise during repair and • may arise during operational disruptions or fault
maintenance work situations and at the same time faults occur on
• may arise during operational disruptions or fault electric equipment which lead to a source of
conditions and at the same time faults occur on ignition and areas with a dangerous quantity of
electric equipment which lead to a source of conductive dust (Group E).
ignition.
Division 2 Division 2 Division 2
Areas in which dangerous concentrations of incen- Areas in which dangerous concentrations of explo- Areas in which flammable fibres are stored or
dive gases or vapours are kept in closed containers sive dust atmospheres can only be released in fault handled differently than in the production process.
or systems and which can only be released as a re- conditions.
sult of fault conditions.

2.3 EXPLOSION PROTECTION IN NORTH AMERICA 2.3.1 INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

The basic principles of explosion protection are the same all
over the world. Nevertheless techniques and systems have been
developed in North America that differ considerably from the
IEC system. The differences, for instance, can be noted in the
classification of hazardous areas, equipment design and the
installation of electrical systems.
In the USA the National Electrical Code (NEC) and in Canada
the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) apply to electrical equip-
ment used on hazardous industrial premises. These have the
character of installation regulations for electrical facilities in
all areas and refer to a number of further standards of other
institutions which contain specifications for the construction
and installation of suitable equipment.

In North America, hazardous atmospheres are termed “hazard-

ous (classified) locations”. Traditionally, hazardous areas are
classified into “Class” and “Divisions” in North America. They
comprise areas in which combustible gases, vapours or mists
(Class I), dusts (Class II) or fibres or lint (Class III) may be pres-
ent in dangerous quantities. Based on the likelihood or duration
of the presence of these substances, the hazardous locations
are traditionally subdivided into Division 1 and Division 2.
 19

V In 1996 the IEC classification system (zone classification) was

Table 6b: Groups
also introduced for Class I. This amendment was implemented in
Gas Dust Article 505 of the NEC, wherein users may choose the optimum
system in terms of technology and economic efficiency. In 2005,
A (acetylene) E (metal)
Zones 20, 21 and 22 for areas with combustible dust (Article 506)
B (hydrogen) F (coal) were introduced.
C (ethylene) G (grain)
The IEC zone concept for Class I was also introduced in Canada
D (propane)
(CEC edition 1988), whereby all newly installed systems must
be classified according to this concept. In the 2015 edition of
the CED the zone concept was also adopted for dust explosion
V hazardous areas.
Table 6c: Temperature classes

Ignition temperature of the Temperature class Maximum surface

gases and vapours in °C temperature on the 2.3.2 SELECTION OF EQUIPMENT
equipment in °C
> 450 T1 450 The traditional North American classification system divides
> 300 to 450 T2 300 Class I flammable gases, vapours, mists and liquids into gas
groups (Groups) A, B, C and D and Class II combustible dusts
> 280 to 300 T2A 280
into Groups E, F and G. The letter A denotes the most hazardous
> 260 to 280 T2B 260
gas group, while in IEC and according to the new classification
> 230 to 260 T2C 230 pursuant to Article 505, Group IIC is the most hazardous group.
> 215 to 230 T2D 215
Determination of the maximum surface temperature to Article
> 200 to 300 T3 200
505 in the NEC according to six temperature classes T1 to T6 is
> 180 to 200 T3A 180 in harmony with IEC – with an additional subdivision into temper-
> 165 to 180 T3B 165 ature classes in the division system. The existing temperature
class system was not changed in the CEC 2015 either.
> 160 to 165 T3C 160

> 135 to 200 T4 135

> 120 to 135 T4A 120

> 100 to 135 T5 100

> 85 to 100 T6 85
 20
2. LEGAL BASES
The installation method for the zone concept pursuant to NEC
505 complies as far as possible to the traditional class/division
systems. Besides the use of fixed pipelines and mineral type MI
in Class I, Division 1 or Zone 1, approved cables are also allowed.
Special cables may also be used in hazardous areas in Canada.
Furthermore, various standards and regulations govern the
construction and testing of explosion-protected electrical
systems and equipment in North America. In the USA these are
predominately the standards of the International Society for
Measurement and Control (ISA), Underwriters Laboratories Inc.
(UL) and the Factory Mutual Research Corporation (FM). In
Canada the standards of the Canadian Standards Association
(CSA) apply.
Enclosure protection types
The counterpart of IEC 60529, which determines the IP protec-
tion types (Appendix 5.2) for enclosures, is the Standard Publi-
cation No. 250 of NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturing
Association) (Appendix 5.3) in the USA. These protection types
cannot be exactly equated to those of the IEC as additional
environmental influences (such as cooling liquids, cutting oils,
corrosion, icing, hail) are addressed. It is to be noted that enclo-
sure types 7, 8, 9 and 10 refer to enclosures for hazardous areas.
Certification
As a rule, electrical apparatus and equipment used on hazard-
ous industrial premises are subject to approval in the USA and
Canada. Exceptions include electrical equipment whose design,
along with the nature of the explosive atmosphere in which it
is used, precludes ignition. The responsible authorities decide
whether such equipment is subject to approval. Equipment
which has been developed and manufactured for use in haz-
ardous locations must be tested and approved in the USA and
Canada by notified inspection authorities.
 21

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES

As Ex areas are not equally hazardous, equipment is subject to different

requirements. Chapter 3 provides more information about zone clas-
sification, equipment categories, the equipment protection level (EPL),
different equipment groups, ignition temperature and temperature
classes. You can find out about the various protection types and famil-
iarise yourself with marking principles.
 22

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES

Table 7: Zone classification

Gas Zone 0 an area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods or frequently.

Zone 1 an area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is likely to occur periodically or occasionally in normal operation.

an area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, it will exist for a short
Zone 2
period only.
Dust an area in which an explosive dust atmosphere, in the form of a cloud of dust in air, is present continuously, or for long periods or
Zone 20
frequently.
an area in which an explosive dust atmosphere, in the form of a cloud of dust in air, is likely to occur in normal operation
Zone 21
occasionally.
an area rea in which an explosive dust atmosphere, in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air, is not likely to occur in normal
Zone 22
operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only.

Zone 0

Zone 1 1.5 m 1.5 m

Zone 2

1m

1.5 m

4.5 m 4.5 m

1.5 m
 23

Table 8: Zone classification and equipment assignment according to their category or EPL protection level

Zone Duration of the presence of Equipment category Equipment protection level (EPL):
an explosive atmosphere
Gases, vapours, mist 0 Constant, long-term, persistent 1G Ga

1 Occasionally 2G Gb

2 Rarely 3G Gc

Dust 20 Constant, long-term, persistent 1D Da

21 Occasionally 2D Db

22 Rarely 3D Dc

3.1 ZONE CLASSIFICATION
Hazardous areas are classified into zones to facilitate the selec-
tion of appropriate electrical apparatus as well as the design of
suitable electrical installations. Zone classification reflects the
likelihood of the occurrence of an explosive atmosphere (see
Table 7).
The equipment used in the defined hazardous zone must meet
the requirements of the respectively assigned equipment
category or equipment protection level. An overview of the zone
classification and assignment of equipment according to their
category is illustrated in Table 8.

Information and stipulations on zone classification can be found

in IEC 60079-10-1 for gas explosion hazardous areas or in IEC
60079-10-2 for areas with combustible dust. There are also
industry codes and national standards providing guidance or
examples for area classification (see Annex K of IEC 60079-10-1).

The maximum risk potential has to be taken into account when

classifying the hazardous areas into zones and determining the
necessary protective measures. If there is no expert available in
the company to assess the risk of explosion and determine the
necessary measures, the advice of a competent authority should
be sought.
 24
3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES
3.2 EQUIPMENT CATEGORIES AND
EQUIPMENT PROTECTION LEVEL (EPL)
Different safety requirements are demanded of the equipment
used depending on the likelihood of the occurrence of an explo-
sive atmosphere. The equipment protection level is matched to
the hazard potential in the different zones.
In Europe explosion-protected equipment is classified into cate-
gories by EU Directive 2014/34 (ATEX). At international level the
equipment protection level (EPL) was introduced by IEC 60079 in
2007.
Equipment should be designed with explosion protection meas-
ures of varying degrees according to its category or equipment
protection level.
Equipment categories
Three categories are envisaged for equipment in hazardous
areas – with the exception of firedamp-endangered mining
works:
Category 1: Equipment in this category is characterised by
a very high degree of safety. Even in the rare event of equipment
faults they must be safe and thus afford explosion protection
so that:
• upon the failure of one device protective measure, at least
a second separate protective measure will guarantee the
necessary safety.
• upon the occurrence of two different faults the necessary
safety is afforded.
Category 2: Equipment and systems offer a high degree of safety.
The device explosion protection measures in this category
are ensured in the case of frequent equipment faults or fault
conditions (which can be typically expected).
Category 3: Equipment in this category affords the necessary
degree of safety in normal operation.
The additional letter G or D indicates the use of the equipment
in gas explosion hazardous areas (G) or areas with combustible
dust (D).

Two categories are envisaged for equipment used in firedamp-
endangered mining works:
Category M1: Equipment in this category is characterised by a
very high degree of safety. Even in the rare case of equipment
faults they must be able to continue operating in the existing
explosive atmosphere and thus display explosion protection
measures so that:
• upon the failure of one device protective measure, at least
a second separate protective measure will guarantee the
necessary safety.
• upon the occurrence of two different faults the necessary
safety is afforded.
Category M2: Category M2 equipment and systems offer a high
degree of safety. Upon the occurrence of an explosive atmos-
phere it must be possible to switch off the equipment. The
device explosion protection measures in this category afford
the necessary degree of safety in normal operation – even in
adverse operating conditions and in particular when exposed to
rough handling and fluctuating environmental influences.
Equipment protection level (EPL):
Pursuant to IEC 60079-0 equipment for hazardous areas is
classified into three protection levels.
EPL Ga or Da: Equipment with a very high protection level for
use in hazardous areas. In normal operation this equipment
represents no risk of ignition in the event of predictable or rare
faults/malfunctions.
EPL Gb or Db: Equipment with a high protection level for use in
hazardous areas which represents no risk of ignition in normal
operation or in the event of predictable faults/malfunctions.
25
EPL Gc or Dc: Equipment with an advanced protection level for
use in hazardous areas. There is no risk of ignition during normal
operation. The equipment has additional protective measures
that ensure no risk of ignition in the event of typically predictable
equipment faults.
The letters G and D denote whether the equipment and systems
are suitable for gas explosion hazardous areas (G) or areas with
combustible dust (D).
Two protection levels are defined for firedamp-endangered
mining works.
EPL Ma: Equipment with a very high protection level that affords
the necessary degree of safety. The equipment represents no
risk of ignition in normal operation or in the event of predictable
or rare faults/malfunctions – even if it is still in operation during
a gas leak.
EPL Mb: Equipment with a high protection level that affords the
necessary degree of safety. The equipment represents no risk of
ignition in normal operation in the period between the occurrence
of the gas leak and switching off the equipment.
Table 8 illustrates the application range for equipment in a spe-
cific category or with a specific protection level in the respective
danger zones.
 26
3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES
3.3 EQUIPMENT GROUPS
Classification pursuant to
European Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX)
The explosion-protected equipment is classified into two groups.
Equipment group I
Equipment intended for use in underground mining works and
surface mining works that may be exposed to the hazard of
firedamp and/or combustible dust.
Equipment group II
Equipment intended for use in other areas that may be exposed
to an explosive atmosphere.
Electrical equipment for mining works in which in addition to
firedamp, gases other than methane may occur, must adhere
not only to Group I provisions, but also to the relevant provisions
of Group II. Group II equipment is further classified according
to application area into equipment for areas exposed to gases,
vapours and mist and equipment exposed to dust.
Classification pursuant to IEC 60079
Two groups were formerly defined for explosion-protected
equipment.
Group I
Equipment for firedamp-endangered mining works.
Group II
Equipment for hazardous areas –
apart from mining.
Upon publication of IEC 60079-0 in 2007 Group III was introduced
for dust explosion hazardous areas. Group II is reserved for
equipment in gas explosion hazardous areas.
Group II
Equipment for gas explosion hazardous areas –
apart from mining.
Group III
Equipment for dust explosion hazardous areas –
apart from mining.
Electrical equipment in Group II (gas) is classified according
to the characteristics of the explosive atmosphere (for which it
is intended) into Groups IIA, IIB and IIC (Table 9). This assign-
ment concerns the flameproof enclosure and intrinsic safety
protection types. In the case of flameproof enclosures, it is
based on the maximum experimental safe gap (MESG), which is
a measure for the discharge behaviour of a hot flame through a
narrow gap. The minimum ignition current (MIC) – a variable for
the minimum ignition energy of emergent gases and vapours –
is definitive for intrinsic safety. Equipment in dust explosion
hazardous areas (Group III) is classified according to dust type
into Group IIIA (combustible lint), IIIB (non-conductive dust) and
IIIC (conductive dust). The latter two groups differ by specific
electrical resistance, which for dusts in Group IIIC lies at a value
less than or equal to 10³ Ωm.
 27

V
Table 9: Equipment group II classification

Group Typical gas Maximum experi- Minimum ignition

mental safe gap current ratio*
(MESG) in mm
IIA Propane > 0.9 > 0.8
IIB Ethylene 0.5 … 0.9 0.45 … 0.8
IIC Hydrogen < 0.5 < 0.45
* Minimum ignition current ratio in relation to methane

The substances and thus the hazardous areas in which they

occur are therefore classified into groups. The equipment
deployed must be designed for the requirements of the groups,
which range in ascending order from IIA to IIC and IIIA to IIIC.
Equipment that complies with IIC criteria may also be used in
IIB and IIA areas. Group IIB equipment may also be used in IIA
areas. IIA equipment may only be used in IIA areas. This applies
likewise for Group IIIA, IIIB and IIIC equipment.
 28

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES

3.4 I GNITION TEMPERATURE AND

TEMPERATURE CLASSES

The ignition temperature of an explosive gas atmosphere or dust

cloud is the lowest temperature of a heated surface at which
a mixture of air and combustible substances in the form of gas,
vapour or dust may ignite in the specified conditions.

Combustible gases
Combustible gases and vapours are classified into temperature
classes according to their flammability. The maximum surface
temperature of electrical equipment must always be lower than
the ignition temperature of the gas or vapour and air mixture
in which it is used. Of course, equipment classified in a higher
temperature class (e.g. T5) may also be used for applications
in which a lower temperature class is required (e.g. T2 or T3).
North America has a system with further classification into
temperature subclasses.
 29

V Combustible dusts
Table 10: Temperature classes
Combustible dusts are not classified into temperature classes.
Ignition temperature Temperature class Maximum surface The minimum ignition temperature of the dust cloud is compared
of gases and temperature of with the maximum surface temperature of the equipment, taking
vapours in °C the equipment in °C
a safety factor into account. The maximum equipment surface
> 450 T1 450 temperature must not exceed two thirds of the dust cloud ignition
> 300 to 450 T2 300 temperature. Since dust can also settle on equipment, the ignition
> 200 to 300 T3 200
temperature of the dust layer (smouldering temperature) must
also be considered. The smouldering temperature is the lowest
> 135 to 200 T4 135
temperature of a hot surface on which a dust layer of 5 mm can
> 100 to 135 T5 100 ignite.
> 85 to 100 T6 85
Adjustment based on the maximum equipment surface tempera-
ture is performed with a safety factor of 75 K. As heat insulation
increases with thicker layers the maximum permissible equip-
ment surface temperature should be reduced accordingly. This
is established according to the diagram (Fig. 4) in IEC 60079-14.
Max. permissible surface temperature (°C)

If the layer is thicker than 50 mm, the smouldering temperature

300
must be determined by laboratory tests. This also applies to layers
thicker than 5 mm when the smouldering temperature is lower
than 250 °C. Laboratory tests are also required when equipment
200 Smouldering tempera- is completely covered with combustible dust. Critical equipment
ture for 5 mm layer surfaces may not be hotter than the lower of the two permissible
surface temperatures with reference to the dust cloud and layer.
400 °C
100 320 °C

250 °C

10 20 30 40 50
Layer thickness (mm)

Figure 4: Establishment of the max. surface temperature

for dust layers of 5 mm to 50 mm
 30
3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES
3.5 PROTECTION TYPES
Explosion-protected equipment is predominantly used in loca-
tions with a threat of explosion. Explosion-protected electrical
equipment for hazardous areas may be designed as per stand-
ard series IEC 60079 building provisions in various protection
types. Protection types for non-electrical equipment are speci-
fied in the ISO 80079 standard series and formerly in EN 13463
in Europe.
The protection type used by a manufacturer for equipment main-
ly depends on its nature and function. Some protection types are
available in different protection levels. They correspond to the
equipment categories in Directive 2014/34/EU or the equipment
protection level (EPL) in IEC 60079-0. In terms of intrinsic safety,
an Ex ia version is available, although it is classified as Category 1
or EPL Ga. It may be installed in Zone 0. The Ex ib version corre-
sponds to Category 2 or EPL Gb. It is suitable for Zone 1. Ex ic
can be used as Category 2 or EPL Gc in Zone 2. In safety terms,
all standardised protection types in a category or equipment
protection level may be deemed equivalent. Tables 11 and 12
provide an overview of the standardised protection types and
describe the basic principle and customary use cases. The pro-
tection type symbols are simplified (Table 13) by integrating the
protection types for dust explosion hazardous areas into the
standard series 60079.
 31

Table 11: Protection types for electrical equipment in explosive gas atmospheres, Part 1

Protection type according Representation Basic principle Main application

to IEC, EN, ISA and UL (Diagram)

General requirements This standard specifies the general requirements for explosion-protected
IEC 60079-0 electrical equipment and also details equipment marking.
EN 60079-0
UL 60079-0

Increased safety “e” Additional measures are adopted in this case to afford a higher degree Terminal and connection boxes,
IEC 60079-7 of safety for preventing impermissible high temperatures and the occur- control boxes for installing ex compo-
EN 60079-7 rence of sparks and flashovers inside or on outer parts of electrical nents (with a different protection
UL 60079-7 equipment that do not occur in normal operation. type), squirrel cage motors, lights
eb = use in Zone 1, 2
ec = use in Zone 2

Flameproof enclosure “d” Parts which can ignite an explosive atmosphere are housed in an Switchgear and control gear, control
IEC 60079-1 enclosure which withstands the pressure of an explosive mixture explo- and display units, control systems,
EN 60079-1 ding inside the enclosure and prevents transmission of the explosion motors, transformers, heaters, lights
UL 60079-1 to the atmosphere around the enclosure. da = use in Zone 0, 1, 2
db = use in Zone 1, 2
dc = use in Zone 2

Pressurised enclosure “p” The formation of an explosive atmosphere inside an enclosure is pre- Switchgear and control cabinets,
IEC 60079-2 vented by maintaining a positive internal pressure of inert gas in relation analysers, large motors
EN 60079-2 to the surrounding atmosphere and, where necessary, by supplying the pxb = use in Zone 1, 2
UL 60079-2 inside of the enclosure with a constant flow of inert gas to dilute com- and Zone 21, 22
bustible mixtures. pyb = use in Zone 1, 2
and Zone 21, 22
pyb = use in Zone 2
and Zone 22

Intrinsic safety “i” Equipment that is used in a hazardous area only contains intrinsically Measurement and control technology,
IEC 60079-11 safe electric circuits. An electric circuit is intrinsically safe if no sparks or fieldbus technology, sensors, actuators
EN 60079-1 thermal effects are produced under specified test conditions (which in- ia = use in Zone 0, 1, 2
UL 60079-11 clude normal operation and specific fault conditions) which might result and Zone 20, 21, 22
in the ignition of a specific explosive atmosphere. ib = use in Zone 1, 2
and Zone 21, 22
ic = use in Zone 2 and Zone 22
[Ex ib] = associated electrical equip-
ment – installation in safe area

IEC 60079-25 Intrinsic safety evaluation for defined systems (equipment and cables). Intrinsically safe systems
EN 60079-25
UL 60079-25
 32

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES

Table 12: Protection types for electrical equipment in explosive areas, Part 2

Protection type according Representation Basic principle Main application

to IEC, EN, ISA and UL (Diagram)

Liquid immersion “o” Electrical equipment or parts thereof are immersed in a protective fluid Transformers,
IEC 60079-6 (such as oil), so that an explosive atmosphere cannot be ignited above or starting resistors
EN 60079-6 inside. ob = use in Zone 1, 2
UL 60079-6 oc = use in Zone 2

Powder filling “q” Filling the enclosure of electrical equipment with a fine granular packing Sensors, electronic ballast,
IEC 60079-5 material stops flashovers inside during intended operation igniting the transmitters
EN 60079-5 explosive atmosphere around the enclosure. Ignition cannot result either q = use in Zone 1, 2
UL 60079-5 from flames or due to increased temperatures on the enclosure surface.

Encapsulation “m“ Parts that may ignite an explosive atmosphere are embedded in sealing ma = use in Zone 0, 1, 2
IEC 60079-18 compound to stop ignition of the explosive atmosphere. and Zone 20, 21, 22
EN 60079-18 mb = use in Zone 1, 2
UL 60079-18 and Zone 21, 22
mc = use in Zone 2 and Zone 22

Protection type “n” Electrical equipment cannot ignite a surrounding explosive atmosphere All electrical equipment for Zone 2
IEC 60079-15 (during normal operation and under defined abnormal operating condi- nA = non-sparking device
EN 60079-15 tions). nC = devices and components
UL 60079-15 nR = restricted breathing enclosure

Optical radiation “op” Appropriate measures prevent ignition of an explosive atmosphere by Fibre optics / use in gas explosion
IEC 60079-28 optical radiation. hazardous areas
EN 60079-28 There are three different methods:
UL 60079, 28 Ex op is = inherently safe optical
radiation
Ex op pr = protected optical radiation
Ex op sh = optical radiation
with interlock

Protection by enclosure “t” Thanks to its tightness, dust cannot penetrate the enclosure or reduces Switchgear and control gear,
IEC 60079-31 it to a negligible degree. Ignitable apparatus can now be mounted in the control, connection, and terminal
EN 60079-31 enclosure. The enclosure temperature must not be sufficient to ignite the boxes, motors, luminaires
UL 60079-31 surrounding atmosphere. ta = use in Zone 20, 21, 22
tb = use in Zone 21, 22
tc = use in Zone 22
 33

Table 13: Marking pursuant to standard series IEC 61241 and IEC 60079

Standard series 61241 Standard series 60079 Application range

Standard Symbol Standard Symbol Zone

Protection via enclosure

IEC 61241-1 tDA20, tDB20 IEC 60079-31 ta 20

tDA21, tDB21
tDA22, tDB22 tb 21

tc 22

Pressurised enclosure

IEC 61241-4 pD21 IEC 60079-2 pxb 21

pD22
pyb 21

pzc 22

Intrinsic safety

IEC 61241-11 iaD20 IEC60079-11 ia 20

ibD21
ib 21

ic 22

Encapsulation

IEC 61241-18 maD20 IEC 60079-18 ma 20

maD21
mb 21

mc 22
 34

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES

Table 14: Protection types for non-electrical equipment in explosive areas

Protective type pursuant to Representation Basic principle Main application

ISO or EN (Diagram)

General requirements This standard specifies the general requirements for explosion-protected
ISO 80079-36 electrical equipment and also details equipment marking.
(formerly EN 13463-1)

Constructional safety “c” Proven technical principles are applied to equipment types which do not Couplings, pumps,
ISO 80079-37 have any ignition source in normal operation, so that the risk of mechani- gear drives, chain drives,
(formerly EN 13463-5) cal faults causing incendive temperatures and sparks is reduced to a conveyor belts
negligible degree.

Control of ignition source “b” Sensors are integrated into the equipment to detect imminent hazardous Pumps, conveyor belts
ISO 80079-37 conditions and adopt countermeasures at an early stage before potential
(formerly EN 13463-6) ignition sources become effective. The measures can be initiated auto-
matically by means of a direct connection between the sensors and the
ignition protection system or manually by issuing a warning to the opera-
tor of the equipment.

Liquid immersion “k” Ignition sources are rendered ineffective by immersion in a protective Submerged pumps, gears
ISO 80079-37 liquid or by constant moistening with a liquid film.
(formerly EN 13463-8)

Flameproof enclosure “d” Parts that can ignite an explosive atmosphere are housed in an enclosure Brakes, couplings
IEC 60079-1 which withstands the pressure of an explosive mixture exploding inside
(formerly EN 13463-3) the enclosure and prevents transmission of the explosion to the atmo-
sphere around the enclosure.

Pressurised enclosure “p” The formation of an explosive atmosphere inside an enclosure is pre- Pumps
IEC 60079-2 vented by maintaining a positive internal pressure of inert gas in relation
(formerly EN 60079-2) to the surrounding atmosphere and, where necessary, by supplying the
inside of the enclosure with a constant flow of inert gas to dilute com-
bustible mixtures.

Protection by enclosure “t” Thanks to its tightness, dust cannot penetrate the enclosure or reduces Equipment exclusively for
IEC 60079-31 it to a negligible degree. Ignitable apparatus can now be mounted in the dust explosion hazardous areas
enclosure. The enclosure temperature must not be sufficient to ignite
the surrounding atmosphere.
 35

Table 15: Difference between intrinsically safe and associated electrical equipment

Intrinsically safe equipment Associated electrical equipment

Ex ib IIC T6 Gb [Ex ib Gb] IIC Ex db eb [ib] IIC T6 Gb

All necessary details such as catego-
ry, explosion group and temperature
class are available.
The equipment may be used in Zone 1.
The square brackets indicate that the respective electrical equipment contains an intrinsically safe electric circuit
which is listed in Zone 1, explosion groups IIA, IIB and IIC.
The equipment must be installed outside the Due to installation in a flameproof enclosure (“db”) the
hazardous area. equipment may be used in Zone 1.

3.5.1 APPLICATION OF PROTECTION TYPE Associated electrical equipment

INTRINSIC SAFETY “i”
The intrinsic safety protection type is based on the principle
of current and voltage limiting in an electric circuit. The electric
circuit energy (which may be capable of causing an explosive
atmosphere) is limited to the extent that neither sparks nor
impermissible surface heating of electrical components can
take place in the surrounding explosive atmosphere. This
protection type is particularly common in measurement and
control technology in which no high currents, voltage and
capacities are required.
Intrinsically safe electrical circuit
An electric circuit in which neither a spark nor the effect of
heat can cause a certain explosive atmosphere to ignite.
Electrical equipment that contains both intrinsically safe and
non-intrinsically safe electric circuits. It is designed such that
the non-intrinsically safe electric circuits cannot compromise
the intrinsically safe ones (Table 15).
An essential aspect of the protection type “intrinsic safety”
is the matter of reliability in respect of observance of voltage
and current limit values, even in the event of specific faults.
Intrinsically safe electrical equipment and parts of associated
equipment are classified according to this reliability into the
different protection levels ia, ib and ic. These protection levels
are matched to the various zones. Intrinsic safety ia is thus
suitable for use in Zone 0, ib for use in Zone 1 and ic for Zone 2.
A distinction is also drawn between singe fault safety and
double fault safety:

• S
 ingle fault safety: Upon the failure of one safety-relevant
Intrinsically safe electrical equipment component a second component must assume its task
Electrical equipment in which all circuits are intrinsically safe. (protection level ib: one redundant component).
• Double fault safety: Upon the failure of two safety-relevant
components a third component must assume their tasks
(protection level ia: two redundant components).

An important safety measure for intrinsically safe circuits is the

safe isolation of all intrinsically safe from all non-intrinsically
safe electric circuits. Excepting safety barriers, safe electric
isolation is always required. Galvanic separation is generally
recommended for Zone 0. Zener diodes for limiting voltage and
other semiconductor components are regarded as fallible and
must be safeguarded by redundant components. Sheet or wire-
wound resistors for current limiting are regarded as infallible
(displaying high resistivity in the event of a fault). A single-com-
ponent version is sufficient in this case.
 36

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES

Figure 5: Isolators with IS pac galvanic separation

Interconnecting individual pieces of equipment in an intrinsic-

ally safe circuit is permissible subject to the planner observing
specific requirements. If associated equipment is interconnected
to intrinsically safe equipment, when installing the circuit it
should be ensured that the safety characteristic values of the
associated and intrinsically safe equipment are matched. (See
IEC 60079-14 and IEC 60079-25 for more details on interconnec-
tion.) The operator must hold proof of intrinsic safety for all
intrinsically safe circuits. If available, a system certificate is
deemed as proof.
 37

Intrinsically safe fieldbus to FISCO FISCO was initially standardised in EN 60079-27, however was
(Fieldbus Intrinsically Safe Concept) transferred into EN 60079-11 in 2008 and EN 60079-25 in 2011.
In the case of Manchester-coded bus-fed systems designed Nowadays end-to-end FISCO fieldbuses are no longer generally
in accordance with IEC 61158-2 (“physical layer standard” for installed, as despite simplification only a limited number of users
fieldbus installations) several field devices are interconnected can be connected to a bus. In the more common high power trunk
on a two-wire line and powered via a fieldbus feed unit. This concept the number of users is no longer limited by the use of ex i
complex interconnection of several devices would result in fieldbus couplers (a sort of fieldbus isolator). However activation
considerable restrictions in respect of the number of users and of the fieldbus devices and simplified proof of intrinsic safety on
line lengths based on a traditional entity concept. The neces- these Ex i couplers continues to be performed as per FISCO.
sary proof of intrinsic safety would be substantial and highly
complex. In the mid-1990s PTB therefore developed a simplified
concept based on extensive studies and analyses. By applying
real parameters more users and more sizeable line lengths are
possible, thus greatly simplifying the proving of intrinsic safety.
Prerequisite to using this model called FISCO is appropriate
certification according to FISCO for all members in a FISCO
fieldbus system.
 38

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES

Table 16: Standards

Ex ic Ex nL NI

Description Intrinsic safety Energy-limited circuits “Non incendive field wiring”

Standard IEC 60079-11 IEC 60079-15:2005 FM 3611

Fieldbus IEC 60079-27-FISCO IEC 60079-27-FNICO:2005 --

Installation IEC 60079-14 IEC 60079-14 NEC 500

Maintenance IEC 60079-17 IEC 60079-17 ANSI/ISA 12.12.01

N.B. Ex nL is not replaced by Ex ic. The transition period expired in 2011.

Table 17: Installation and maintenance

Ex ic Ex nL NI

Application range (gas) Zone 2 Zone 2 Class I, Div. 2

Application range (dust) Zone 22 Zone 22 Class II + III, Div. 2

Cables and lines IEC 60079-14 IEC 60079-14 US standard

Marking Yes. If coloured, then blue No special requirements No special requirements

Distance to normal circuits 50 mm No (50 mm to Ex i) Isolation

Proof of energy limiting Yes Yes Yes

Distance to uncoated conductive parts to non-ex i 50 mm; No special requirements Isolation

to other ex i 6 mm;
to earth: 3 mm

Maintenance* Yes Yes Yes

Upkeep* Yes Yes No

* In NEC 500 a distinction is made between maintenance and upkeep. For instance, during upkeep the live replacement of defective
“non-incendive” components is not allowed.

Zone 2 and Division 2: Intrinsic safety ic – energy-

limited circuits nL – non-incendive NI
In the USA the principle of energy limiting is addressed variously
depending on the application area. Equipment requirements for
Class I, Zone 2 correspond most closely to IEC requirements. In-
trinsic safety type ic has replaced the energy-limited circuit type
nL – as also envisaged in the IEC standards. For Class I, Division
2 energy limiting is implemented in the shape of “non-incendive
field wiring (NI)” circuits. The difference between the various
methods is illustrated in tables 16 and 17.
 39

Figure 6: Combination of protection types

for an emergency luminaire

3.5.2 APPLICATION AND COMBINATION OF PRO-

TECTION TYPES FLAMEPROOF ENCLOSURE
“d” AND INCREASED SAFETY “e”

The most important protection type for switchgears is the flame-

proof enclosure – usually combined with increased safety. The
protection type increased safety is based on measures that afford
a higher degree of safety to avoid the occurrence of ignition
sources. However, switchgears produce sources of ignition, and
this protection type alone is not sufficient to ensure explosion
protection. In conjunction with increased safety, flameproof
enclosure as protection type also plays an important role for
switchgears. Modern, explosion-protected luminaires also use
a combination of several types of protection to achieve the best
results with regard to safety, function and economy (Fig. 6).
 40

3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES

3.5.3 APPLICATION OF THE PROTECTION TYPE

CONSTRUCTIONAL SAFETY “c”

Non-electrical equipment is frequently designed in the construc-

tional safety protection type. The risk of faults that may cause
ignition sources on equipment is minimised by constructional
measures in this type of protection. Constructional measures
can be used for instance to avoid hot surfaces or mechanically
generated sparks on moving parts. The measures depend mainly
on the equipment type and may vary significantly. In this case,
potential material pairing, dimensioning, tolerances and lubri-
cants on moving parts play a role. Even maintenance intervals
and life cycle monitoring may be of vital importance. The manu-
facturer defines the designated use in the operating instruc-
tions, also specifying the ambient and operating conditions and
permissible operating parameters. The operator must adhere
to the specifications in the operating instructions.

3.6 MARKING
Worldwide (IEC)
Marking of electrical equipment is defined in IEC 60079-0. In
addition to the name of the manufacturer or its trademark, the
type designation, serial number and inspection authority with
certificate number, a special code is required that describes
the use of the equipment:
• The Ex symbol.
• The symbol for each level of protection used. (In the case
of associated equipment for installation in dangerous areas,
the symbols for the level of protection must be specified in
square brackets.)
• Group IIA, IIB or IIC for gas explosion hazardous areas or
Group IIIA, IIIB or IIIC for dust explosion hazardous areas.
• Temperature class for gas explosion hazardous areas or
maximum surface temperature in °C for dust explosion
hazardous areas.
• Explosion protection level (EPL ).
Examples: by CEN in Europe under standard series EN 13463. Marking
Ex d e IIC T4 Gb
Ex ta IIIC T120°C Da
On associated equipment that may be installed in non-explosive
areas, the symbols for the level of protection must be specified
in square brackets.
Example:
Ex db [ia Ga] IIB T5 Gb
The marking of non-electrical equipment is largely identical
to that of electrical equipment. However, instead of various
symbols for the level of protection, the letter “h” is always used.
41
Europe (ATEX)
In Europe, in addition to marking pursuant to the standard
(see IEC), the requirements of EU Directive 94/9/EC and 2014/34/
EU (ATEX) must also be satisfied. The following data must be
specified:
• Manufacturer’s address.
• CE mark (possibly with code of the named authority).
• The symbol and group (e.g.: II) and Category 1,
2 or 3 and letter G (gases) or D (dust).
Example:
II 2 G
In Europe, instead of “Ex”, “EEx” used to be used when marking
in accordance with the standard, e.g. EEx d e IIC T4. A reference
was thus made to the European standards (EN 50014 ff.), which
at the time differed from the IEC standards. This is no longer
necessary due to the current standard status, so that in Europe
new equipment is now only marked “Ex”.
Standards for non-electrical equipment were originally issued
is similar to that of electrical equipment – with the following
exceptions:
• “Ex” is not specified, as the EX mark already refers to
explosion protection through ATEX.
• The equipment protection level is not specified.
These standards were revised at international level and
published in 2016. In Europe they were adopted as standard
series EN ISO 80079, so marking is now more similar to that
of electrical equipment. Exception: “h” is always specified
as the symbol for the protection type.
The marking for electrical and non-electrical equipment is
summarised in the appendix on p. 52 onwards.
 42
3. TECHNICAL PRINCIPLES
North America
In addition to usual data (manufacturer, type, serial no., elec-
trical data), explosion protection data should also be included
in the equipment marking. Specifications are provided in NEC,
CEC and the relevant construction regulations of the inspection
authorities.
Electrical equipment approved for Class I, Class II and Class
III, Division 1 and Division 2 acc. to NEC 500 - 504 (USA) or for
Canada acc. to CEC Appendix J18 should be marked so that the
following details are included:
• Class(es), Division(s) (optional for Division 1).
• Gas/dust group(s).
• Service temperature or temperature class
(optional for T5 and T6).
Example:
Class I Division 1 Groups C D T4
Equipment specified in the USA for zones pursuant to NEC
article 505 or 506, or CEC Section 18, should bear the following
marking:
• Class (dispensed with in the USA for dust
atmospheres and entirely in Canada).
• Zone (dispensed with in Canada).
• Symbol AEx (USA) or Ex (Canada).
• Abbreviation of the protection type(s) used.
• Group of electrical equipment II or
gas group(s) IIA, IIB or IIC.
• Temperature class or max. surface temperature
of equipment for dust atmospheres.
• Equipment protection level (EPL).
Example:
Class I, Zone 0, AEx ia IIC T6
Division equipment may be used in zones and vice-versa.
However the rules set out in NEC and CEC must be observed.
 43

4. INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IN
HAZARDOUS AREAS

The final chapter provides basic information on the installation and

operation of electrical systems in Ex areas. Detailed information on
the responsibilities of operators, installers and manufacturers can be
found in our “Obligations and Duties” brochure.
 44

4. INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IN
HAZARDOUS AREAS

Operator Inspection authority

Installer Standardisation

Manufacturer Public authority

Figure 7: C
 ooperation of the involved parties

4.1 OPERATOR, INSTALLER AND MANUFACTURER

OBLIGATIONS

Safety in hazardous areas can only be ensured by a close and
effective working relationship among all parties involved (Fig. 7).
Besides operators, installers and manufacturers, this also
includes inspection authorities, standardisation authorities and
public authorities.
The operator is responsible for the safety of its equipment. It is
their duty to judge where there is a risk of explosion and then
classify zones accordingly. The operator must ensure that the
system is installed correctly and tested before first-time com-
missioning. The system must be kept in proper working order by
regular inspection and maintenance.
 45

Table 18: Explosive atmosphere (gas and combustible dust)

IEC EN

Classification of areas - Explosive gas atmospheres IEC 60079-10-1 EN 60079-10-1

Classification of areas - Explosive dust atmospheres IEC 60079-10-2 EN 60079-10-2

Electrical installations design, selection and erection IEC 60079-14 EN 60079-14

Electrical installations inspection and maintenance IEC 60079-17 EN 60079-17

Equipment repair, overhaul and reclamation IEC 60079-19 EN 60079-19

The requirements for system operation in hazardous areas
are defined in the national regulations. In Europe minimum
requirements are stipulated in EC Directive 1999/92/EC. National
regulations supply the specific requirements in the respective
countries.
Various standards have been issued at international and Euro-
pean level (Table 18).
The installer must observe the installation requirements and
select and install the electrical equipment correctly according
to its intended use.
Manufacturers of explosion-protected equipment must ensure
special quality assurance measures during production and
that every piece of manufactured equipment complies with the
approved construction type.
 46
4. INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IN
HAZARDOUS AREAS
4.2 AREA CLASSIFICATION AND
SELECTION OF EQUIPMENT
Potential explosion hazards are addressed at an early stage in
the planning of new systems. When classifying hazardous areas
both the strength of potential sources of ignition for combustible
substances and the influence of natural or artificial ventilation
must be taken into account. The explosion safety characteris-
tics of the combustible substances used must be determined
(Appendix 5.1). Only then can a decision be reached on the
classification of explosive areas into zones and the selection of
suitable equipment.
Equipment may only be used in the ambient temperature range
specified in its marking. If the marking does not contain any
information, the standard range of -20 °C to +40 °C applies.
Electrical equipment must comply with the subgroup IIA, IIB or
IIC. It must be selected and installed so that it is protected from
external influences that may compromise explosion protection.
4.3 INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES
In the main, three installation systems are used for electrical
systems in hazardous areas:
• Cable system with indirect entry.
• Cable system with direct entry.
• Conduit system.
The technical design of the electrical equipment implemented
in the individual types of installation varies accordingly.
In the USA only the conduit system or mineral insulated cables
(MI) are permitted for all Class 1, Division 1 applications to NEC
501-4, whereby mineral-insulated cables are mainly used as
heating lines and fire-resistant signal and control lines. Type
MC-HL or ITC-HL cables may also be used in specific conditions.
Certain types of cable and line are also permitted in Division 2.
Cable systems
In Europe cable systems are most common, with high-quality
cables and lines laid uncovered. It is only in areas in which
mechanical damage is likely that they are laid in conduits, which
are open at both ends.

Figure 8: Installation techniques worldwide. Left: cable system
with indirect entry. Centre: cable system with direct entry.
Right: conduit system.
In the case of indirect entry the cables and lines are run via
cable entries into an “increased safety” protection type wiring
area, where they are connected to terminals also designed for
the increased safety protection type. The individual wires are
then run via flameproof line bushings into the flameproof enclo-
sure. In contrast to direct entry, the cable bushings are installed
by the manufacturer so that the entire flameproof enclosure can
be tested at the factory. The installer needs to only open the wiring
area, but not the flameproof enclosure, for connection purposes.
47
In the case of direct entry the connecting lines are directly
led into the flameproof enclosure. Only cable glands that have
been specially designed and approved for this type of entry may
be used. The flexible gasket and the cable sheath must form a
flameproof joint. Care should therefore be taken to ensure that
the right cable gland is selected for the type and structure of the
cable and where it is used. In the event of an explosion in the
flameproof enclosure the cable must withstand the explosion, so
special requirements are placed on the gaskets.
 48
4. INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IN
HAZARDOUS AREAS
Until Edition 2007 of IEC 60079-14, a selection matrix was applied
to define when additional sealing compound was required in
the screw fitting according to gas group, zone and enclosure
volume. The matrix was superseded by IEC 60079-14 in 2013.
Screw fittings with sealing compound should continue to be
used. However, this is not required if a round tight cable* with
a minimum length of 3 m is used in conjunction with a screw
fitting approved for flameproof enclosures. At this point, the
flameproof enclosure depends on the care taken by the installer
on laying the cables and lines.
Conduit system
In the case of conduit system installations, the electrical lines
are run as single wires into enclosed metal conduits. The con-
duits are connected to the enclosures by means of screw
fittings and sealed at every entry. The entire conduit system is
flameproof. The aim of the seal is to prevent explosions which
may occur inside the enclosure from penetrating the pipes. Other-
wise, extremely high explosive pressures would be created as
a result of pre-compression in long cylindrical tubes. For this
reason, it is recommended that seals be installed not just at the
entries, but also at specific intervals. Drains must be installed
at low points where condensate can accumulate.
* Cables and lines in a thermoplastic, duroplastic or elastomeric material.
They must be circular and compact. All embedding or sheaths must be
extruded. If filling material is used, it must not be hygroscopic.
4.4 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Regular maintenance is required to maintain the safety of
electrical systems in hazardous areas. The personnel perform-
ing such maintenance work must be supervised by an explosion
protection expert and be informed of the special hazards. Before
modification and maintenance jobs, it must be ensured that
there is no risk of explosion during this work. Usually, official
written permission must be obtained from the management.
A report documenting the work performed should be drafted
on completion. In addition it must be confirmed that all relevant
regulations were observed.
When replacing components or entire pieces of equipment, the
explosion and equipment specifications should be noted.
This publication affords an initial insight into the extensive field
of explosion protection. You can find other brochures and informa-
tion on the subject on our website, r-stahl.com. We also offer a
comprehensive range of courses to keep you abreast of changes
in explosion protection. From foundation and advanced cours-
es to current developments, you are sure to find the seminar
that suits your needs among the many courses on offer. We will
be pleased to answer any questions you may have.
49
 50

5. APPENDIX

5.1 SAFETY CHARACTERISTICS OF FLAMMABLE GASES AND VAPOURS

Table 19: Safety data – Ignition temperature, temperature class and group

Substance designation Ignition temperature °C Temperature class Group

1.2 dichloroethane 440 T2 II A

Acetaldehyde 155 T4 II A

Acetone 535 T1 II A

Acetylene 305 T2 II C3

Ammonia 630 T1 II A

Petrol fuels 220 to 300 T3 II A

Benzene (pure) 555 T1 II A

Cyclohexanone 430 T2 II A

Diesel fuels 220 T3 II A

Acetic acid 485 T1 II A

Acetic anhydride 330 T2 II A

Ethane 515 T1 II A

Ethyl acetate 470 T1 II A

Ethanol 400 T2 II B

Ethyl chloride 510 T1 II A

Ethylene 440 T2 II B

Ethylene oxide 435 (self-decomposing) T2 II B

Ethyl ether 175 T4 II B

Ethyl glycol 235 T3 II B

Fuel oil EL, L, M, S 220 to 300 T3 II A

i-Amyl acetate 380 T2 II A

Carbon monoxide 605 T1 II A

Methane 595 T1 II A

Methanol 440 T2 II A

Methyl chloride 625 T1 II A

Naphthalene 540 T1 II A

n-Butane 365 T2 II A

n-Butanol 325 T2 II B

n-Hexane 230 T3 II A

n-Propyl alcohol 385 T2 II B*

Phenol 595 T1 II A

Propane 470 T1 II A

Carbon disulphide 95 T6 II C1

Hydrogen sulphide 270 T3 II B

Toluene 535 T1 II A

Hydrogen 560 T1 II C2
*The explosion group for this substance has not yet been determined.
1
Also explosion group II B + CS2. 2 Also explosion group II B + H2. 3 Also explosion group II B + C2 H2.
 51

5.2 ENCLOSURE PROTECTION TYPES ACCORDING TO IEC 60529 – IPXX

Table 20: Enclosure protection types according to IEC 60529 – IPXX

Ref- First number Second number

Foreign body
erence Touch protection Water protection
0 No protection No protection No protection

1 Protection from contact with back of hand Protection from solid foreign bodies 50 mm Ø Protection from water dripping straight down

2 Protection from contact with fingers Protection from solid foreign bodies 12.5 mm Ø Protection from water dripping down at an angle

3 Protection from contact with tools Protection from solid foreign bodies 2.5 mm Ø Protection from spray water up to 60°

4 Protection from contact with wire Protection from solid foreign bodies 1.0 mm Ø Protection from splash water from all directions

5 Protection from contact with wire Dust-protected Protection from hose water (IP x5)

6 Protection from contact with wire Dustproof Protection from strong hose water (IP x6)

7 Protection against intermittent immersion in water

8 Protection against continuous immersion in water

5.3 ENCLOSURE PROTECTION TYPES ACCORDING TO NEMA STANDARDS

Table 21: Enclosure protection types according to NEMA standards (Publication No. 250 Enclosures for Electrical Equipment
1000 volts maximum)

Reference Protection type Installation site

Type 1 Protection against accidental contact with live parts. Interior

Type 2 Protection against penetration of dripping water and falling dirt. Interior

Protection against swirling dust, rain and hail.

Type 3 Open air
No damage from ice formation on enclosure.
Protection against penetration of hail, swirling dust and rain.
Type 3R Open air
External mechanisms stay operational when iced-over.
Protection against falling rain, splashing water and hose water. Interior
Type 4
No damage from ice formation on enclosure. or open air
Protection against falling rain, splashing water and hose water. Interior
Type 4X
No damage from ice formation on enclosure. or open air

Type 5 Protection from dust and falling dirt and dripping non-corrosive liquids. Interior

Protection from penetration of dust and hose water and water during temporary submersion. Interior
Type 6
No damage from ice formation on enclosure. or open air
Protection from penetration of dust and hose water and due to prolonged submersion in water. Interior
Type 6P
No damage from ice formation on enclosure. or open air

Type 7 For installation in hazardous areas classified as Class I, Groups A, B, C or D. Interior

Interior
Type 8 For installation in hazardous areas classified as Class I, Groups A, B, C or D.
or open air

Type 9 For installation in hazardous areas classified as Class II, Groups E, F or G. Interior

Type 10 Enclosure which complies with the Mine Safety Health Administration requirements. Mining

Type 11 Protection from the corrosive effects of liquids and gases by oil immersion. Interior

Type 12, 12K Protection from penetration of dust, dirt and dripping liquids. Interior

Type 13 Protection from dust, hose water, oil and non-corrosive liquids. Interior
52

5.4 MARKING OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

Symbol
Type of protection Zone Main application Standard
alternative

eb 1 Terminals and terminal boxes, IEC 60079-7

Increased safety “e”
ec 2 squirrel cage rotors, lights EN 60079-7

da 0
Switchgear and control gear, IEC 60079-1
Flameproof enclosure “d” db 1
command and display devices, motors EN 60079-1
dc 2

pxb 1, 21
IEC 60079-2
Pressurised enclosure “p” pyb 1, 21 Switchgear and control cabinets, large motors
EN 60079-2
pzc 2, 22

ia 0, 20 Instrumentation and control technology, fieldbus technology,

IEC 60079-11
Intrinsic safety “i” ib 1, 21 sensors, actors [Ex ib] = associated electrical equipment
EN 60079-11
ic 2, 22 in safe area

ob 1 IEC 60079-6
Liquid immersion “o” Transformers
oc 2 EN 60079-6

Sensors, electronic components, IEC 60079-5

Powder filling “q” q 1
electronic ballasts EN 60079-5

ma 0, 20
IEC 60079-18
Encapsulation “m” mb 1, 21 Sensors, electronic components
EN 60079-18
mc 2, 22

nA 2
IEC 60079-15
Protection type “n” nC 2 Electrical equipment for Zone 2
EN 60079-15
nR 2

ta 20
Switchgear and control gear, control, connection, IEC 60079-31
Protection by enclosure “t” tb 21
and terminal boxes, motors, lights EN 60079-31
tc 22

Type of protection

II 2G Ex db [ia] IIC T6 Gb
Group Max. surface temperature
Firedamp-endangered areas Gas explosion hazardous areas: Temperature classes

Group I Methane Group I Methane

Gas explosion hazardous areas Gas explosion hazardous areas

IIA Propane 450 °C T1

Group II IIB Ethylene 300 °C T2
IIC Hydrogen 200 °C T3
135 °C T4
Dust explosion hazardous areas 100 °C T5
85 °C T6
IIIA Combustible lint
Dust explosion hazardous areas: Surface temperature
Group III IIIB Non-conductive dust
IIIC Conductive dust T … °C (Example: T 80°C)

ATEX marking
Equipment group I: mining; Equipment group II: other areas
Classification Zone 0 Zone 20 Zone 1 Zone 21 Zone 2 Zone 22 Mining

Hazardous explosive atmosphere Constantly, frequently or long-term Occasionally Seldom and short-term

Equipment category 1G 1D 2G 2D 3G 3D M1 or M2

Equipment category and equipment protection level (EPL)

Classification Zone 0 Zone 20 Zone 1 Zone 21 Zone 2 Zone 22 Mining

EPL (IEC/EN 60079-0) Ga Da Gb Db Gc Dc Ma or Mb

 53

5.5 MARKING OF NON-ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

Symbol
Type of protection Zone Main application Standard
Standard

0, 1, 2 Couplings, pumps, ISO 80079-37

Constructional safety “c” h
20, 21, 22 gear drives, conveyor belts EN ISO 80079-37

0, 1, 2 ISO 80079-37
Control of ignition source “b” h Pumps, conveyor belts
20, 21, 22 EN ISO 80079-37

0, 1, 2 ISO 80079-37
Liquid immersion “k” h Submerged pumps, gears
20, 21, 22 EN ISO 80079-37

IEC 60079-1
Flameproof enclosure “d” h 1, 2 Brakes, couplings
EN 60079-1

1, 2 IEC 60079-2
Pressurised enclosure “p” h Pumps
21, 22 EN 60079-2

IEC 60079-31
Protection by enclosure “t” h 20, 21, 22 Equipment exclusively for dust explosion hazardous areas
EN 60079-31

Type of protection

II 2G Ex h IIC T6 Gb
Group
Firedamp-endangered areas

Group I Methane Max. surface temperature

Gas explosion hazardous areas Gas explosion hazardous areas: Temperature classes

IIA Propane 450 °C T1

Group II IIB Ethylene 300 °C T2
IIC Hydrogen 200 °C T3
135 °C T4
Dust explosion hazardous areas 100 °C T5
85 °C T6
IIIA Combustible lint
Dust explosion hazardous areas: Surface temperature
Group III IIIB Non-conductive dust
IIIC Conductive dust T … °C (Example: T 80°C)

ATEX marking
Equipment group I: mining; Equipment group II: other areas
Classification Zone 0 Zone 20 Zone 1 Zone 21 Zone 2 Zone 22 Mining

Hazardous explosive atmosphere Constantly, frequently or long-term Occasionally Seldom and short-term

Equipment category 1G 1D 2G 2D 3G 3D M1 or M2

Equipment category and equipment protection level (EPL)

Classification Zone 0 Zone 20 Zone 1 Zone 21 Zone 2 Zone 22 Mining

EPL (IEC/EN 60079-0) Ga Da Gb Db Gc Dc Ma or Mb

54

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Directive 2014/34/EU of the European IEC 60079 Part 0 to 46

Parliament and the Councilof 26 February Explosive atmospheres
2014 on the harmonisation of the laws of www.webstore.iec.ch
the Member States relating to equipment
and protective systems intended for use in EN 60529
potentially explosive atmospheres (recast) Degrees of protection provided
by enclosures (IP-Code)
Directive 94/9/EC of the European Parliament www.cenelec.eu
and the Council of 23 March 1994 on the
approximation of the laws of the Member EN 13463 Part 1 to 8
States concerning equipment and protective Non-electrical equipment for use in
systems intended for use in potentially potentially explosive atmospheres
explosive atmospheres www.cenelec.eu

Directive 1999/92/EC of the European Parlia- ISO 80079 Part 36, 37

ment and of the Council of 16 December 1999 Explosive atmospheres –
on minimum requirements for improving the Non-electrical equipment
safety and health protection of workers po- for explosive atmospheres
tentially at risk from explosive atmospheres www.webstore.iec.ch
(15th individual Directive within the meaning
of Article 16(1) of Directive 89/391/EEC) EN 1127 Part 1 and 2
Explosive atmospheres - Explosion
prevention and protection
www.standards.cen.eu
55
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